How to Enjoy Visit South Africa

Visit South Africa is your tourism information hub for Paternoster on the West Coast of the Western Cape Province, in South Africa.

There are few destinations around the world that remain completely untouched by modernization and technology. To find a village that looks and feels the way it did when it was first established is rare, and in South Africa one of those idyllic destinations is Paternoster. A mere hundred and fifty kilometers outside of the bustle of Cape Town lies the small fishing village of Paternoster. Its magnificent beaches, tranquility and beautiful landscapes transport visitors and property owners to another world.

The village is located along the west coast of South Africa and borders on the splendor of the Columbine Nature Reserve. In 1829, a ship named the Columbine sank just off the coast of Paternoster and many survivors made it to shore. It is said that the sailors showed their gratitude by saying the “Our Father” prayer and that the name Paternoster, which means Our Father, was given to the village.

Every morning, just as the sun starts to glisten on the ocean waters, fishing boats can be seen dotting the horizon as fishermen set out for their daily catch. And in the late afternoon, as dusk begins to creep in, the boats return with their fresh catches of crayfish and snoek. For most of the year, visitors will also be able to see many dolphins and whales playing in the waves in an area where they are safe to live and their presence is respected.

In the months of late July and September, when spring starts to bring new life to the South African landscape, indigenous flowers in various colors, sizes and species blanket the Paternoster fields and hills in vibrant beauty and life. And these millions of flowers are just one of the attractions that the village has to offer. Hiking, mountain biking, spear fishing, fishing, diving, ocean kayaking and boat trips are amongst the popular activities in Paternoster.

With fresh fish being brought into the village every day, visitors and locals alike are spoilt to enjoy some of the most scrumptious seafood. The white sandy beaches, which are home to more than two hundred bird species, offer a peaceful existence to birds such as the sacred ibis, oystercatchers, seagulls, cormorants, as well as the weary traveler who seeks peace and relaxation.

The village is any tourist or holiday-maker’s dream with a vast choice of accommodation options – from camping, glamping, self-catering, bed & breakfast to luxurious hotels, not to mention more than 15 restaurants catering for every taste. Visit Paternoster – put your feet up and let your hair down. This is heaven.

What people say

We had such a fun time with Deon. He took us on a great tour of the beautiful Paternoster and sharin...  -  Ncumisa Bam.